Research on therapies used across medicine and how they perform. Covers weight-loss injections, hormone therapy, stem-cell approaches, pain relief, and drug targets.
A new study has found that a smartphone app can quickly screen for cognitive dysfunction often found in patients with cirrhosis. The app, called EncephalApp_Stroop, is a valid method for screening minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) and may improve treatment rates in potential patients.
Researchers found that the procedure was successful in 89% of patients with symptomatic carotid artery occlusion, allowing for recanalization through imaging examination findings. The study's results suggest a treatment approach based on imaging exam findings can effectively restore blood flow to affected areas.
A new study suggests that continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy can improve the subjective impression of people with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), making them appear more alert, youthful, and attractive. The study used digital photos to assess facial changes before and after at least two months of CPAP treatment.
Researchers found significant improvements in facial appearance, including reduced puffiness and redness, after just a few months of CPAP treatment for middle-aged patients with sleep apnea. The study used face mapping and photogrammetry techniques to measure changes in facial contours.
Recent paper reviews treatment scenarios for SARS, suggesting similar treatments may work for MERS-CoV. The Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus has been identified in over 90 patients, with approximately 50% mortality rate.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons has released a list of five targeted, evidence-based recommendations to support conversations between patients and physicians about necessary care. The recommendations aim to reduce waste and overuse in the healthcare system by identifying unnecessary tests and procedures in orthopaedics.
Researchers found that atorvastatin treatment decreased levels of inflammatory markers, thrombogenesis, and hyperlipidemia, suggesting its anti-inflammatory and anti-thrombotic effects. This study expanded the use of atorvastatin for acute ischemic stroke treatment by measuring multiple biomarkers.
A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that critically ill patients often receive futile treatment, with estimated costs of $2.6 million over three months. The most common reason for perceiving treatment as futile was the significant burden it placed on the patient's quality of life.
A study found that 11% of ICU patients received treatments perceived by physicians as 'futile', with high costs and poor outcomes. The majority of patients received appropriate care, but many were given aggressive therapies without expected benefits.
A new UN-backed study reveals that treated wastewater has 'massive potential resource' globally, but data on its usage is scarce. Only 55 countries out of 181 studied have information on wastewater generation, treatment, and reuse.
The smart phone app uses data from over 100,000 heart attack patients to calculate the risk of repeat attacks within three years. This enables clinicians to tailor treatments to individual patients, reducing the risk of side effects and improving patient outcomes.
A study found that transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) can be successfully performed in high-risk patients with bicuspid aortic valves, with a higher rate of aortic regurgitation. Despite this, the procedure resulted in similar mortality rates as those with tricuspid aortic valves.
Researchers have identified the cells targeted by anthrax toxins, which can cause illness and death. Lethal toxin targets heart cells and muscle cells surrounding blood vessels, while edema toxin targets liver cells.
The report provides 13 key standards for effective coordinator-based FLS services, which have been shown to close the treatment gap and manage high-risk patients. Implementing these standards can help healthcare providers identify and treat patients at risk of secondary fractures, reducing future fracture risk and associated costs.
The American Academy of Periodontology urges pregnant women to prioritize periodontal health to minimize risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Regular dental cleanings and monitoring can help prevent premature birth or low-birth weight babies.
A recent study of over 1600 children found that cumulative incidence of stuttering by four years old was 11% higher than previous reports. Stuttering was associated with better language development and non-verbal skills, but no impact on mental health or temperament.
Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD) is a rare genetic disorder affecting the respiratory and other systems, with limited data due to small patient populations. The BESTCILIA project aims to improve screening and treatment through clinical trials, standardized diagnostic testing, and patient registries.
A meta-analysis of 12 studies found that lateral wedge insoles had no significant or clinically important effect on reducing knee pain in patients with medial knee osteoarthritis. The overall effect estimate was moderately significant, but heterogeneity across studies suggested a null association.
The WHO's Mental Health Gap Action Programme Intervention Guide (mhGAP-IG) was adapted for Nigeria to address the substantial treatment gap. The adaptation process involved a multi-step approach, including situational analysis, focus group discussions, and pilot testing, to contextualize the guide for the Nigerian context. The resultin...
The Rhode Island Consortium for Autism Research and Treatment (RI-CART) has received a $1.2 million grant to create a confidential registry of individuals diagnosed with autism in the state. The registry aims to improve diagnoses and treatments by connecting families with clinical experts and researchers.
A long-term study of insulin pump therapy in children with type 1 diabetes found improved HbA1c control and reduced episodes of severe hypoglycaemia. Pump therapy also led to lower rates of diabetic ketoacidosis compared to injections.
A study published in Spine Journal found that 65% of herniated lumbar discs resulted from avulsion of the vertebral end plate junction, rather than true rupture. The findings challenge conventional wisdom on how herniated discs occur and may lead to a reevaluation of treatment strategies.
Researchers at the University of Sheffield have developed a new treatment for children with brittle bone disease, finding that oral risedronate significantly reduces the risk of fractures. The study showed rapid action, with curves for fracture risk diverging after just 6 weeks of treatment.
A new study, MADIT-Asia, aims to improve treatment of non-ischemic heart disease in the Asian population. The trial will test cardiac resynchronization therapy using a two-lead system, which may reduce complications and improve outcomes.
The European Society of Cardiology's ESC Congress 2013 received a record number of abstract submissions, with nearly 10,500 entries. The congress will feature four Hot Lines press conferences, discussing innovative treatments for conditions such as venous thromboembolism and myocardial infarction.
Recent studies have reported discouraging results for endovascular treatment of acute stroke, but a commentary suggests it remains a viable option for certain patients. A new study also finds no evidence that obesity affects outcomes in subarachnoid hemorrhage patients.
A study of current and former military personnel found that mental disorders and male sex are independently associated with increased suicide risk, but deployment or combat experiences were not linked to an increased risk. The findings suggest that early recognition and treatment of mental health concerns can help mitigate suicide risk.
A recent study reveals that many people experience mental health disorders after disasters, with nearly 1 in 3 showing signs of PTSD. The study emphasizes the need for a consistent and integrated system for identifying, triaging, and treating these individuals.
Researchers at National University of Mexico found that prolactin can prevent chondrocyte death and associated cartilage degradation in rheumatoid arthritis models. Prolactin treatment reduced inflammation, bone erosion, joint swelling, and pain in rat models.
A University of Zurich study found online psychotherapy to be equally effective, and in some cases better than, face-to-face therapy in reducing depression. After treatment, 53-57% of patients showed significant improvement, with higher satisfaction rates for both groups.
A study of nearly 46,000 caregivers in 17 low- to middle-income countries found that disabled children were more likely to receive violent treatment, including being hit on the head or beaten with an object. The study suggests that harsh discipline may be a result of stigma around disabilities rather than the disability itself.
A study found that strong doctor-patient relationships facilitate conversations about healthcare costs, particularly when patients feel trust their physician. Patients are more willing to discuss personal out-of-pocket costs than insurer costs, and older and sicker individuals are more receptive to discussing costs.
A multicenter study found that whole-body CT scans significantly lower mortality rates for severely injured patients in shock. The comprehensive knowledge gained from the scan enables targeted life-saving emergency treatment, leading to a 25% increased chance of survival.
A study found that electroacupuncture at specific points (Baliao and Huiyang) improved cystometric capacity, decreased detrusor leak point pressure, and treated post-stroke detrusor overactivity. The treatment significantly enhanced bladder function in patients with this condition.
Prosthetic valve endocarditis is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, and early surgery does not appear to reduce one-year mortality compared to medical therapy. Approximately one-third of patients die within one year after diagnosis, mainly due to complications such as S aureus infection.
A new review published in The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist recommends that all women be asked about postpartum psychosis risk factors before conception to ensure early recognition and prompt treatment. Women with bipolar disorder are at high risk of developing postpartum psychosis, with a 1 in 4 chance.
Researchers have created synthetic receptors that mimic biological nicotine receptors, showing promise in clinical detection and treatment therapies for nicotine addiction. The new molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) demonstrate high selectivity and effectiveness across a wide pH range.
A new study suggests that CPAP therapy significantly reduces nightmares in veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and obstructive sleep apnea. Treatment compliance improves when patients experience restful sleep without frequent nightmares, leading to better overall health outcomes.
The US Preventive Services Task Force found insufficient evidence to recommend for or against screening for primary open-angle glaucoma. Two commentaries explore the physician's role in preventing gun violence, including the importance of discussing guns with elderly patients and advocating for mental health treatment.
A study in Belgium demonstrates that simplified IVF methodology can be successful and cost-effective, with estimated costs as low as €200 per cycle. The research aims to make infertility care universally accessible to couples in developing countries.
A recent study published in Reproductive BioMedicine Online examines the outcomes of assisted reproduction treatment for same-sex male couples and single men. The research found that high success rates can be achieved, particularly among persistent individuals, with most men successful in realizing their dream of fatherhood.
A study by researchers at the University of Zurich and UCL found that irreversible tissue loss occurs in spinal cord injury patients as early as 40 days after injury. The study used novel MRI protocols to track changes in the spinal cord and brain, revealing a rapid decline in spinal cord diameter and nerve cell volume.
A young man experienced severe compartment syndrome in his shoulder due to excessive weightlifting, requiring surgery and hospitalization. The case report emphasizes the importance of recognizing unusual musculoskeletal injuries and highlights the role of bedside ultrasound in diagnosis.
Patients with strokes often encounter barriers in receiving adequate care due to fragmented services and poor communication. Systematic review findings highlight the need for health systems to prioritize patient needs over healthcare systems.
More than half of WHO FCTC signatory countries lack tobacco quit plans, with only 44% having treatment guidelines. Tobacco dependence treatment is a cost-effective way to save lives, according to expert comments.
The EHRA White Book reports on arrhythmia treatments in 55 ESC member countries, with a focus on lead extractions. Lead extraction data reveals significant morbidity and mortality worldwide.
Dr. Graeme Bell has been awarded the 2013 Banting Medal for his pioneering work in understanding the role of genetics in diagnosing and treating diabetes. His research focuses on the biology of insulin-secreting pancreatic beta-cells and the use of genetics to personalize treatment.
A study of nearly 60,000 patients with acute ischemic stroke found that faster thrombolytic treatment was associated with lower mortality and improved walking ability at discharge. The study suggests accelerating patient presentation and streamlining healthcare systems to reduce treatment times can improve outcomes.
A new study has designed and tested a vestibular prosthesis to help restore balance in individuals with Meniere's disease. The prosthesis uses electrical stimulation to activate the vestibular nerve, aiming to alleviate symptoms such as vertigo and tinnitus. However, further research is needed to fine-tune the device for individual cal...
A study demonstrates that brodalumab effectively reduces PsA symptoms and improves quality of life. The treatment also shows promise for those with prior biologic exposure, indicating a potential new therapeutic approach for this progressive disease.
A Johns Hopkins trial found that group psychotherapy significantly reduced symptoms of PTSD, depression, and anxiety among women survivors of sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The treatment achieved more dramatic results compared to individual support services.
A landmark study suggests that altered neural circuitry contributes to restricted eating in anorexia and overeating in bulimia. Functional MRI scans revealed diminished responses to sweet tastes in recovered individuals with anorexia, while elevated responses were seen in those with bulimia.
Researchers discovered that severe trauma injuries or burns lead to defective neutrophils, which contribute to septic complications. Measuring neutrophil motility could become a biomarker for predicting risk of septic complications and personalizing treatments.
Leading diabetes expert argues that 'Type 2 diabetes' is a category error, implying an entity that doesn't exist. This mislabeling has led to sub-optimal treatment for patients. Professor Edwin Gale proposes replacing the term with 'idiopathic hyperglycaemia', emphasizing individualized treatments based on varied causes.
Hernia surgery appears cost-effective, with an average cost per QALY of £1,881, and patients report greater health benefit after keyhole surgery than open surgery. The study challenges the idea that hernia surgery has low clinical value.
A new study published in JAMA Network found that a 5-day glucocorticoid treatment course was non-inferior to a 14-day course in reducing re-exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) during 6 months of follow-up. The shorter-course regimen also resulted in significantly reduced glucocorticoid exposure.
A study found that optimal treatment of sleep apnea with CPAP improves glucose levels and reduces cardiometabolic risk in patients with prediabetes. Insulin sensitivity is also enhanced without affecting insulin secretion.
A new study from Umea University finds that men with more severe psoriasis receive more frequent and expensive treatment, contributing to higher healthcare costs. The research analyzed data from over 2,200 Swedish patients and found a significant difference in disease severity between men and women.
A study of 1,089 nurses from diverse countries found that global views on end-of-life care preferences diverge between patients and themselves. Lack of knowledge about the patient's wishes and duty as a caregiver were key factors influencing these differences.
New guidelines from the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care recommend against routine screening for depression in adults without apparent symptoms. The recommendations are based on a lack of high-quality evidence on the benefits and harms of screening. Clinicians should be alert to the possibility of depression in patients wi...